KETOTIFEN OPHTHALMIC

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zaditor

GENERIC NAME(S): KETOTIFEN FUMARATE

Description: Ketotifen selectively and noncompetitively inhibits the release of mediators from cells involved in hypersensitivity reactions. I works by blocking histamine and is also a mast cell stabilizer that prevents allergic reactions.

Uses

Treatment of itchy eyes caused by allergies.
This medication is used to prevent and treat itching of the eyes caused by allergies (allergic/seasonal conjunctivitis). Ketotifen is an antihistamine for the eye that treats allergic symptoms by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine). It is also a mast cell stabilizer that prevents allergic reactions by reducing the release of natural substances that cause an allergic reaction.

How to use:

Always refer to your doctors instructions before taking this medication. Duration and dosage will be determined by your medical condition and its response to the medication. Make sure to take this medication in the prescribed amount and time period even after symptoms disappear. Discontinuing the medication before completion of treatment may cause incomplete treatment of condition. If Symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
Apply 1 drop to the affected eye(s), usually twice a day (every 8 to 12 hours) or as directed by the package instructions or your doctor.
To apply eye drops, wash hands first and do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
Avoid wearing contact lenses while you are using this medication.
Shake the bottle well before using. Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place one drop into the pouch. Look downward, gently close your eyes, and place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose). Apply gentle pressure for 1 to 2 minutes before opening your eyes. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink or rub your eye. If directed to use this medication in both eyes, repeat these steps for your other eye. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use.

Warnings

Side Effects

Minor side effects (if these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor)

Burning/stinging/irritation of the eye, headache, stuffy/runny nose, bad taste in your mouth, and increased sensitivity to light.

Serious side effects (inform your doctor immediately)

Dry eyes, eye pain, increased redness/swelling of the eye, vision problems.

Severe allergic reactions are rare. Get immediate medical help if you notice the following:
- Rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Precautions

Precautions

Inform your doctor.
- Allergy to the medication or any allergies.
- Medical History of eye problems (e.g., glaucoma).

May cause temporary blurring of vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

Should only be used when there is a clear need during pregnancy as it may harm an unborn baby. If you are planning to be pregnant or think you may be pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of use with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Before breast-feeding, consult your physician.

Interactions

Taking multiple drugs may affect how medications work and/or cause unwanted side effects. List down all the medications you are taking and inform your physician and pharmacist. Do not take, discontinue, or alter any dose of medications without prior approval of your physician.

Overdose & Brands

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and as soon as you remember, take a regular dose or if the time of the next dose is near, wait for it before taking another dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not increase the dose to compensate for the missed dose.

Storage:

Room temperature 4-25 degrees C
If you are using the single-dose container, discard it after use.
Discard unused single-dose containers 4 weeks after you first open the blister pack (or 3 months after opening if you store them in the original carton box)
Do not expose to light and moisture
Do not store in the bathroom
Keep all medications away from pets and children

Brands

Also marketed as

Azimef [ YSP ]
Zadec/Zadec SRO [ Novartis Healthcare ]
Zaditen Ophthalmic Solution [ Novartis Healthcare ]
Zaditen SRO/Zaditen [ Sandoz ]